Bape Bearbrick 1000—those stylish, blocky bear-shaped figures—have become an iconic blend of art, fashion, and collectible culture. Originally created by Japanese company Medicom Toy, Bearbricks are now beloved around the globe for their unique designs and limited-edition appeal. In France, interest in Bearbricks has surged, driven by streetwear trends and the growing demand for designer toys.
In this article, we’ll explore the top Bearbricks you should know—Bape Bearbrick 1000%, Coco Chanel Bearbrick, and the highly sought-after Kaws Bearbrick. You'll also discover trusted places to buy Bearbricks in France and learn how to authenticate your Bearbrick collection like a pro.
What Are Bearbricks?
Bearbricks (also styled BE@RBRICK) are collectible designer toys shaped like a cartoon bear. These art toys come in various sizes, with the most popular being the 100%, 400%, and 1000% versions—the last standing at a towering 70cm tall. Each Bearbrick is typically released in collaboration with artists, fashion houses, musicians, or global brands, which makes them extremely collectible and often valuable.
Why Bearbricks Are a Must-Have for Collectors in France
France, with its appreciation for design, fashion, and art, is a perfect market for Bearbricks. Many French collectors see these toys as cultural artifacts, merging streetwear and high fashion. From the alleys of Le Marais in Paris to concept stores in Marseille, Bearbricks are showing up in luxury boutiques and contemporary art galleries alike.
Top Bearbricks You Should Know
Let’s dive into three of the most iconic Bearbricks available today:
1. Bape Bearbrick 1000%
Brand Collaboration: A Bathing Ape (Bape) × Bearbricks
Size: 1000% (approx. 70 cm tall)
The Bape Bearbrick 1000% is a monumental piece for any collector. Bape, the legendary Japanese streetwear brand, brings its camo-rich designs and bold aesthetics to the Bearbrick universe. The 1000% version is the crown jewel—limited, oversized, and incredibly detailed.
Design Features:
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Signature Bape camouflage in various colorways
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Glossy or matte finishes
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Often released during exclusive drops in Japan or through limited retail partners
Why It’s Popular in France:
French streetwear fans adore Bape, and combining it with Bearbrick creates the ultimate statement piece. Perfect for showcasing in modern interiors or collector showrooms.
2. Coco Chanel Bearbrick
Brand Collaboration: Chanel-inspired design (unofficial tribute editions)
Size: Typically 400% or 1000%
The Coco Chanel Bearbrick pays homage to the timeless elegance of French fashion. These editions are usually created as tribute designs and are unofficial yet wildly popular. They often mimic Chanel’s classic monochrome palette, quilted textures, and even feature pearl or tweed-like finishes.
Design Features:
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Black and white palette, often with pearl accents
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Inspired by Chanel’s logo, No. 5 perfume, or fashion line
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Minimalistic and ultra-chic
Why It’s a Favorite in France:
Chanel is synonymous with French luxury. A Coco Chanel Bearbrick is a stunning fusion of high fashion and modern collectible art. It's especially appealing to collectors with an eye for elegance.
3. Kaws Bearbrick
Brand Collaboration: KAWS × Medicom Toy
Sizes: 100%, 400%, and 1000%
Arguably the most globally recognized Bearbrick, the Kaws Bearbrick is designed by Brian Donnelly (a.k.a. KAWS), a renowned American artist. Known for his “XX” eyes and cartoon-inspired figures, KAWS Bearbricks are art pieces in their own right.
Design Features:
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Signature “XX” eyes
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Iconic characters like Companion or BFF
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Often use muted tones or bold primary colors
Why French Collectors Love It:
Kaws has had major exhibitions in Paris, and his crossover into fine art makes his Bearbricks a natural fit for French art lovers. They blend pop culture, street art, and collectible design into one highly desired object.
Where to Buy Bearbricks in France
Looking to start or expand your Bearbrick collection? Here are some reputable places to find authentic Bearbricks in France:
Designer Toy Stores
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Artoyz (Paris): One of the top shops in France dedicated to designer toys. They carry limited-edition Bearbricks and often have exclusive drops.
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Royal Cheese (Paris): A mix of fashion and art. Occasionally stocks high-end Bearbricks.
Concept Stores
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Colette (now closed but previously a hub): While it no longer exists, Colette popularized Bearbricks in France. Look for similar high-end concept stores like The Broken Arm or Merci.
Online Marketplaces
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StockX: Great for tracking current market prices and buying authenticated Bearbricks.
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Grailed: Popular for rare and second-hand Bearbricks, especially Bape and Kaws editions.
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Rakuten France and eBay France: Proceed with caution—authenticity can vary.
Auction Houses & Galleries
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French auction houses sometimes feature Bearbricks in art auctions.
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Art galleries that focus on contemporary or pop art might carry or resell designer Bearbricks, especially Kaws Bearbricks.
How to Legit Check Bearbricks Brand
With Bearbricks fetching high prices, counterfeits are unfortunately common. Here’s how to perform a basic legitimacy check:
Check Packaging
Authentic Bearbricks come in well-sealed packaging with clear branding, logos, and licensing info from Medicom Toy. Look for clean edges and high-quality print.
Verify Serial Numbers
Larger Bearbricks often include a serial number or authentication mark. Compare this with listings on reputable collector sites or forums.
Examine the Finish
Fakes often have poor paint jobs, dull colors, or rough seams. Authentic Bearbricks are precisely made with flawless finishes.
Confirm with Experts
Use online communities like Reddit’s r/bearbrick or Instagram collector accounts to verify authenticity. You can also compare yours with photos from trusted sellers.
Buy From Verified Sources
The safest way to avoid fakes is to purchase from authorized sellers, boutiques, or platforms that offer authentication guarantees like StockX.
Common Questions About Bearbricks
What makes Bearbricks so expensive?
Bearbricks are often released in limited editions, sometimes in collaboration with major artists or brands. Their rarity and design value contribute to their high price.
Are Bearbricks just toys?
Not really. While toy-shaped, Bearbricks are considered art collectibles. Many are displayed in homes, galleries, or even museums.
How do I start collecting Bearbricks?
Start small with 100% or 400% editions from verified retailers. Choose themes or brands you love—Bape, Chanel, and Kaws are great entry points.
Can Bearbricks be an investment?
Yes. Rare editions, especially collaborations like Kaws Bearbricks or Bape Bearbrick 1000%, have been known to appreciate significantly in value.
What’s the difference between 100%, 400%, and 1000% Bearbricks?
These refer to size. 100% is about 7cm, 400% is 28cm, and 1000% is 70cm. The 1000% versions are often the most prized and displayed.
Final Thoughts
Bearbricks are more than just trendy figures—they are a cultural phenomenon that mixes art, fashion, and street culture. Whether you're drawn to the urban appeal of the Bape Bearbrick 1000%, the elegance of the Coco Chanel Bearbrick, or the artistry of the Kaws Bearbrick, there’s a perfect Bearbrick out there for you.
If you're in France, you're in luck—Paris and other major cities offer plenty of opportunities to explore, purchase, and even exhibit these iconic collectibles. Just remember: always buy from trusted sources and learn how to legit check before you invest.
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